Mission:

As the Nation's principal conservation agency, the Department of the Interior has responsibility for most of our nationally-owned pubic lands and natural and cultural resources. This includes fostering sound use of our land and water resources; protecting our fish, wildlife, and biological diversity; preserving the environmental and cultural values of our nation parks and historic places; and providing for the enjoyment of life through outdoor recreation. The Department assesses our energy and mineral resources and works to ensure that their development is in the best interests of all our people by encouraging stewardship and citizen participation in their care. The Department also has a major responsibility for American Indian reservation communities and for people who live in island territories under U.S. Administration.

This publication is financed by the National Park Service, United States Department of the Interior. Under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 as amended; Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended; and the Age Discrimination Act of 1975, as amended, the United States Department of the Interior prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, handicap, or age in its programs. If you believe you have been discriminated against in any program, activity, or facility, or if you desire further information please write: Office of Equal Opportunity, National Park Service, P.O. Box 37127, Washington, DC 20013-7127.